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Spas

Spa Basics

By , About.com Guide

Spas began when people started soaking themselves in hot springs thousands of years ago. But the spa world has changed since then. Find out about the different kinds of spas, what treatments they offer, and how to choose the right one for you. And get answers to basic spa questions about etiquette and how much a spa costs.
  1. Spa Etiquette - Stripping To Tipping
  2. What Can I Have Done At A Spa?
  3. Understanding The World of Spas
  4. Choosing The Right Spa For You
  1. Get The Most From Your Massage
  2. Spa Costs, Deals & Discounts
  3. Living The Spa Lifestyle

Spa Etiquette - Stripping To Tipping

Canyon Ranch

This is a big area of concern and confusion for people who are new to spas. Relax! There's nothing to worry about. Get answers to all your questions on what to wear to the spa, how much to take off, and how much to tip. Spa-going behavior varies by country. Europe is much more free-wheeling about nudity in co-ed baths and saunas.

What Can I Have Done At A Spa?

Mandarin Oriental

Spas range from tiny day spas to sprawling 40-room resort spas with fabulous facilities. The one thing they all have in common is spa treatments like massage, body treatments and facials. Find out more about the kinds of treatments you can get at a spa.

Understanding The World of Spas

One Spa at Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica, Ca.

A little storefront in a strip mall and world-famous Canyon Ranch both call themselves spas. What is a spa, anyway? Where did they come from? You need to understand the different kinds of spas so you get exactly the spa experience you're looking for.

Choosing The Right Spa For You

The Spa at Camelback Inn, Scottsdale, Arizona

Now that you understand more about different types of spas and what happens there, find out more about how to pick the right one for you -- what to look for, the advantages of one type over another, and what to avoid.

Get The Most From Your Massage

massage

Massage is the most frequently requested service at a spa. Swedish is usually the best place for a beginner to start. Here's more on the most common types of massage available, what you should do if your massage hurts, and how to choose and communicate with your massage therapist.

Spa Costs, Deals & Discounts

A spa experience can range from a $75 massage at a local day spa to a week (or more!) at a spa that costs $8,000. Find out more about what a spa costs and how to get the best deals whether you're at home or traveling.

Living The Spa Lifestyle

You can spend a lot of money at the spa, but the real benefits come from taking care of yourself on an ongoing basis. Here you'll find articles on how to create a spa day at home, spa treatments you can do on yourself, spa products you can make yourself, and more on how to lead a healthy spa lifestyle.

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